What Are the Requirements for Being a Juror?

To be legally eligible for jury service in federal courts, candidates must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, and a primary resident of their judicial districts for at least one year, according to U.S. Courts. Jurors must also be proficient speakers and writers of the English language to complete the juror qualification form in a satisfactory manner.

Citizens who are subject to felony charges punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or who have been convicted of a felony, unless civil rights have been legally restored, are disqualified from jury service, notes U.S. Courts. Those with severe mental or physical disabilities may also be disqualified. Active duty members of the armed forces, members of professional fire or police departments, and full-time public officers of federal, local, or state governments are barred from serving as jurors in federal courts, even if they voluntarily apply.

The Jury Act allows courts to excuse jurors at the time they are summoned on the grounds of undue hardship or extreme inconvenience, explains U.S. Courts.The juror must write a letter to the court clerk which includes an explanation of the excusable hardship in order to be exempted. Each federal district court has its own regulations and requirements for jury selection of local court cases.